Clara wrinkled her nose. "I hope it's not too spicy."
Leo smirked. "No promises."
They gathered around a small outdoor table, picking various skewers from the steaming pots. Jillian took a bite and immediately coughed, eyes watering. "This is… intense."
Dante chuckled. "Welcome to real Sichuan spice."
Despite the heat, they enjoyed their meal, laughing as they challenged each other to handle the spice level. It felt like old times, but with a new sense of purpose.
As they finished eating and prepared to head back, Jillian took a deep breath. Tomorrow, their university life would begin. A new chapter filled with challenges, growth, and the unknown.
But for now, she let herself enjoy the moment—with her friends, in a city that would soon become home.
After escorting them to their apartment, Dante and Leo lingered for a moment, making sure the girls were comfortable before finally bidding them goodbye.
"You girls settle in. If you need anything, call us," Dante said, glancing around the modest yet cozy apartment.
Leo smirked. "Don't go getting lost in the city on your first night."
Jillian rolled her eyes playfully. "We'll be fine. Go, before you start acting like overprotective brothers."
With a final nod, Dante and Leo turned to leave, disappearing into the bustling streets of Chengdu. The girls stood at the doorway, watching them go, before stepping inside, ready to begin this new chapter of their lives.
As the night settled over Chengdu, Jillian, Chloe, and Clara lounged in their new apartment, finally taking a moment to breathe. The day had been long—filling out admission forms, choosing their majors, and getting settled into their new home. Now, with everything in place, they could finally relax.
Chloe stretched on the couch, resting her head against the cushions. "It still feels unreal. We're actually here. University students in a whole new city."
Clara leaned back in the armchair, a small smile playing on her lips. "And officially roommates. This is going to be an adventure."
Jillian, sitting cross-legged on the floor, glanced at her phone before locking the screen. "Tomorrow is the real beginning. Orientation, meeting new people, and stepping into our future."
Chloe groaned. "You make it sound so serious. Can't we just enjoy the moment before we drown in books and lectures?"
Clara chuckled. "She's right, though. This is just the start of everything."
Jillian exhaled, a determined glint in her eyes. "Then let's make the most of it."
The three shared a knowing look—this was more than just starting university. It was the first step toward their dreams. And no matter what challenges lay ahead, they were in this together.
That night, as Jillian lay on her bed, staring at the ceiling, her phone vibrated on the nightstand. She reached for it and saw her grandmother's name flashing on the screen. A small smile tugged at her lips as she answered.
"Grandma," she greeted softly.
Her grandmother's warm yet firm voice came through the line. "Jillian, I just wanted to remind you—don't forget why you are there."
Jillian's fingers tightened around the phone. She knew exactly what her grandmother meant. This wasn't just about education; it was about securing her future, proving herself, and finding the answers she had long been searching for.
"I won't forget," Jillian assured her. "I'll work hard."
Her grandmother sighed, a mix of pride and concern in her tone. "Good. The future is in your hands now, my dear. Stay focused, stay strong. And no matter what happens, remember—you are never alone."
Jillian swallowed the lump in her throat. "Thank you, Grandma. I'll make you proud."
"I know you will," her grandmother said warmly. "Now get some rest. Tomorrow is a new beginning."
As the call ended, Jillian held the phone to her chest for a moment. She closed her eyes, inhaling deeply. The weight of responsibility sat heavily on her shoulders, but she was ready.
Tomorrow, her journey at Tingshua University would truly begin.
The night passed quickly, exhaustion pulling them into a deep sleep. Before they knew it, the soft glow of morning seeped through the curtains, signaling the start of a new day—orientation day.
Jillian stretched as she sat up, her mind still adjusting to the reality of being in a new city, a new home, and now, about to step into one of the most prestigious universities. Excitement and nerves danced in her stomach as she got ready.
Chloe and Clara were already up, preparing for the day. "Big day ahead," Chloe grinned, pulling on her blazer.
Clara smirked. "And the real challenge begins now."
After a quick breakfast, the three of them left the apartment, the cool morning breeze carrying the sounds of the bustling city. They made their way toward Tingshua University, where the campus was alive with students. Some looked as nervous as they felt, while others moved with the confidence of those who had already adjusted.
At the main hall, large banners welcomed the new students. Groups were forming, conversations buzzing all around. Professors and senior students stood at different stations, ready to guide them through the day.
"Alright," Jillian took a deep breath. "Let's do this."
With that, they stepped forward, ready to embrace the new chapter of their lives.
Jillian, Chloe, and Clara walked into the grand lecture hall, joining a sea of eager students for their first orientation session. The room buzzed with excitement and nervous anticipation. Large projection screens displayed the university's motto, and at the front, a panel of distinguished professors took their seats.
As the session began, the head of the medical department, Professor Liang, stepped forward. His sharp gaze swept across the students. "Welcome to Tingshua University. You are among the best, but excellence here is not given—it is earned." His voice was firm, carrying a weight that made the room fall silent.
One by one, the professors introduced themselves, each specializing in different fields. Jillian listened intently as the cardiology professor spoke about the challenges of heart surgery, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and fear. Chloe's eyes lit up as the neurosurgery professor detailed the intricate nature of brain operations, while Clara focused on the orthopedic department's discussion of reconstructive techniques.
Then came the reality check. "Many of you will struggle," Professor Liang continued. "Some may even fail. Medicine is not just a career; it is a commitment to lifelong learning, discipline, and sacrifice."
Jillian exchanged glances with Chloe and Clara. The weight of their choice settled in. This was not just a dream anymore—it was their reality, and they would have to give everything to succeed.
As they left the hall, the three of them walked in silence for a moment, absorbing everything. Then, Chloe smirked. "So, are we ready for this?"
Jillian exhaled and straightened her shoulders. "We don't have a choice. We made it here, now we prove we belong."
With newfound determination, they stepped forward, ready to embrace the challenges ahead.